In the wake of sweeping layoffs, Paramount Skydance is reshaping its cable TV empire—but at what cost? Just last week, following the Skydance-Paramount merger, the company announced widespread job cuts, leaving many in the industry wondering about the future of its beloved brands. But here’s where it gets interesting: TV Media chair George Cheeks has unveiled a bold new leadership structure aimed at reinventing and strengthening these iconic networks. And this is the part most people miss: while the focus is on franchises like SpongeBob SquarePants and RuPaul’s Drag Race, the fate of other networks like VH1 and TV Land remains unclear, sparking questions about their place in this new vision.
In a memo to staffers, Cheeks emphasized the goal of “reinventing and strengthening our brands to build a stronger future rooted in exceptional storytelling across entertainment, news, and sports.” This comes after the departure of Chris McCarthy, former head of Showtime & MTV Entertainment Studios, who exited with the Skydance deal. But here’s where it gets controversial: as Paramount leans into established franchises, critics are asking whether this strategy stifles innovation or if it’s a necessary move to stabilize the company during this turbulent transition.
Under the new structure, Laurel Weir will spearhead programming for major brands like MTV, Comedy Central, and Nickelodeon, while also overseeing global programming acquisitions. At MTV, Jeannie Scalzo and Sitarah Pendelton will lead the business and series, respectively. Nickelodeon’s Jules Borkent will manage the Kids & Family strategy, with Ashley Kaplan and Alec Botnick overseeing animation for digital, TV, and streaming platforms. Comedy Central will be helmed by Ari Pearce, focusing on hits like South Park and The Daily Show. But what about the rest? Notably absent from Cheeks’ memo is any mention of who will oversee networks like VH1, TV Land, Logo TV, and Paramount Network, leaving employees and industry watchers speculating about their future.
Cheeks also acknowledged the emotional toll of the layoffs, thanking staffers for their resilience during this “difficult time of transformation.” Yet, the exit of Taylor Sheridan to NBCUniversal, after producing hits like Yellowstone and Tulsa King, raises questions about Paramount’s ability to retain top talent. Is this a sign of deeper challenges ahead, or a necessary step toward a leaner, more focused company?
Looking forward, Paramount Skydance plans to double down on franchises while developing new IP and exploring ways to connect with audiences. Janice Gatti will lead PR and communications for TV Media, joined by Ashley Priest, following Liza Burnett Fefferman’s departure in August. Meanwhile, Paramount TV Studios head Matt Thunell recently announced a leadership restructuring amid the layoffs.
But here’s the bigger question: As Paramount Skydance leans into its most profitable franchises, is it risking its creative edge? Or is this the only way to survive in an increasingly competitive media landscape? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do you think this strategy will pay off, or is Paramount playing it too safe?
